Dual-Axis Rotating Spray System for Complex Dishwasher Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spray systems for dishwashers and similar applications have limited complexity in fluid distribution due to fixed nozzles on rotating arms, which restrict effective coverage of objects with non-uniform surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A spray system with a rotatable hub and spray arms that rotate around two independent axes, where the hub's rotation causes continuous changes in nozzle position and angle, increasing fluid distribution complexity, using mechanical forces and optional bearings to reduce friction and wear, and incorporating protrusions for self-sustained rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If nozzles are fixed on rotating arms, then the spray system is simple in structure, but the fluid distribution complexity is limited and cannot effectively cover objects with non-uniform surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The spray arm is designed with dynamic motion capabilities, allowing it to rotate around a first axis while simultaneously changing the nozzle orientation around a second axis. This dynamic configuration enables the fixed nozzle to achieve variable spray directions and positions, increasing fluid distribution complexity without adding multiple nozzles or complex positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the first axis, adding dimensional complexity to the spray arm's motion. This dual-axis rotation transforms the spray pattern from a single-plane circular motion to a three-dimensional coverage pattern, enabling effective spraying of non-uniform surfaces while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional motors are added to rotate spray arms around a second axis, then fluid distribution complexity increases, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spray arm utilizes the rotational motion around the first axis to automatically generate the desired motion around the second axis through its geometric configuration and mechanical design. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional motors, as the system's own operation provides the necessary motion for enhanced fluid distribution complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spray arm's geometric configuration acts as an intermediary that transforms the rotational motion from the first axis into combined motion patterns involving both axes. This mechanical intermediary converts simple rotation into complex spray trajectories without requiring additional active components or control systems.
3Productivity
If bearings are used to reduce friction, then rotation efficiency improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs simple friction-reduction mechanisms such as low-friction surfaces, lubricated contacts, or basic pivot points instead of complex bearing assemblies. These simpler components may have shorter service lives but significantly reduce device complexity and manufacturing costs while maintaining adequate rotation efficiency for the application.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances fluid distribution complexity, ensuring better coverage of objects with non-uniform surfaces without the need for additional motors, by translating rotational movements and utilizing mechanical forces and gravity for rotation, thus improving the efficiency and adaptability of the spray system.
Implementation Method 1
the first bearing and/or the second bearing is a ball bearing. A ball bearing allows reducing the friction in the bearings
Implementation Method 2
the first bearing and/or the second bearing is a ball bearing. A ball bearing allows reducing the friction in the bearings
Implementation Method 3
the rotation of the spray arm involves rotation in two directions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A spray system for spraying a fluid in a dishwasher, the spray system comprising a rotatable hub (202) and one or more spray arms (204, 206) comprising one or more nozzles (222); wherein the spray arms are rotatably mounted to the hub and wherein, in operation of the spray system, the hub rotates around a first rotation axis (208) and each spray arm rotates around a second rotation axis (210).